Lever-Actuated Pluggable Terminal Block for Fast Wire Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional terminal blocks require time-consuming and difficult processes to secure wires, often leading to incomplete connections and disconnections, especially in setting up and breaking down sound equipment, causing interruptions in electrical signals and inconsistent power transfer.
Innovation Solution
A pluggable terminal block with a lever mechanism that actuates an internal spring to securely connect and disconnect wires without tools, featuring a busbar for efficient electricity transfer and a socket for pin connection, allowing quick and reliable electrical connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional screw-based terminal blocks are used, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but the connection process becomes time-consuming and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static screw-clamping mechanism into a dynamic spring-loaded system with a lever actuator. The spring provides continuous pressure to maintain reliable electrical contact, while the lever enables quick transition between connected and disconnected states without requiring threading or tightening operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the multi-step mechanical screw tightening process with a simple lever-p弹簧 compression mechanism. The lever rotates to compress the spring, which then maintains constant pressure on the conductor through its elastic recovery, eliminating the need for threaded fasteners and reducing the connection process to a single rotational motion
2Reliability
If traditional screw-based terminal blocks are used, then secure wire retention is achieved, but the operation becomes complex and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism automatically maintains pressure on the conductor without requiring user intervention to adjust or tighten. Once the lever is actuated to compress the spring, the spring's elastic properties ensure continuous retention force, and the system self-regulates the clamping pressure throughout operation
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic spring-loaded system replaces static screw clamping, allowing the terminal block to adapt to different conductor sizes and shapes while maintaining secure retention. The lever provides a clear mechanical indication of the connected state, and the spring automatically compensates for any settling or movement
3Productivity
If pluggable terminal blocks with lever mechanisms are used, then quick connection and disconnection is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The terminal block is segmented into distinct functional components: the lever actuator, the spring mechanism, the busbar, and the housing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while enabling modular manufacturing and assembly, reducing overall complexity despite the enhanced functionality
4Reliability
If traditional terminal blocks are used, then complete electrical connection is achieved, but disconnection becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The lever-spring mechanism creates a dynamic system where the spring maintains continuous pressure for reliable connection, but the lever can be easily actuated to release this pressure. The mechanical advantage provided by the lever allows a small input force to overcome the spring force and disconnect the conductor quickly
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid and secure electrical connections, reducing the risk of signal interruptions and power inconsistencies, and simplifies the setup and teardown of audio and electronic equipment.
Implementation Method 1
the lever actuates an internal spring to securely connect and disconnect wires
Data Source
AI summary
A terminal block including a body, a plug, and a lever. The plug extends from the body to connect to an outlet. As the plug connects to an outlet, the plug is configured to receive an electrical pin and/or another conductor. In one example, the outlet and pin are part of an audio device. The body is configured to receive a wire and/or another conductor. The lever is configured to actuate between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the lever is configured to compress an internal spring to receive a wire. In the closed position, the lever is configured to release the spring such as to retain the wire.